Fernie Free Press, October 1, 2020

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NDP’s Wayne Stetski hits the ground running

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Stetski has thrown his hat into the ring to contest Kootenay East for the NDP

Elkford Secondary

Scott Tibballs The Free Press Editor

Students conquer hike - Page 3

Fernie Rotary

Carrie Du’Way and Mayor Ange Qualizza led this year’s Pride Bike Parade. (Soranne Floarea/ The Free Press)

Elk Valley Pride Festival paints the town rainbow The festival powered through COVID-limits and poor weather Scott Tibballs The Free Press Editor

Scramble gets locals exploring - Page 5

Animal rescue

Twin Meadows steps up for the animals Page 22

The Elk Valley Pride Festival has come to a close, and despite plenty of rain, organizers say it was a success.

Four days of rainbows and celebration of the LGBTQ community saw more than 400 people take part in the yearly event.

Pride coordinator Courtney Baker said that Fernie had been enthusiastic about the festival in 2020 despite the challenges of the pandemic limiting in-person events which saw the two largest events maxed at 20 people. “People went really out of their way to embrace the festival this year,” she said, adding that the number of rainbow decorations around town “was really heartwarming and really fantastic to see.”

Baker estimated more than 400 people took part in events both in-person and online, saying that the online component would likely be retained for future pride

festivals.

“Next year regardless of what the situation with the pandemic is I think we’ll continue to stream events. We did access a lot of people that might not have attended in person.”

Baker said the most popular event appeared to have been the drive-in movie, which was limited to 50 vehicles.

“Everybody that did go said how much they enjoyed it and how great it was. There was the nostalgia factor involved with that.”

Baker thanked everybody that came to the festival, as well as sponsors, supporters and the LGBTQ community and their allies for making the 2020 Elk Valley Pride Festival what it was.

“Its really important to us that it was received well and we are really heartwarmed by how well the community got Pride and Transgender flags wave on the behind it.” lawn of Fernie’s City Hall. (Soranne Floarea/ More pictures on Page 27 The Free Press)

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The Kootenay East branch of the NDP has nominated former federal MP Wayne Stetski to contest the upcoming provincial election for the party.

Stetski previously sat as the MP for KootenayColumbia between 2015 and 2019 and served as the Mayor of Cranbrook for one term.

In an interview with The Free Press, Stetski touched on policy and programs relevant to residents of the Elk Valley, saying his top three priorities he’d be campaigning on were health, wildlife and hunting, and education. He also said that if elected, he’d work to set up a parttime constituency office in the Elk Valley postCOVID. On health, he said that it was important BC could stay the course given it had “basically lead the country and been recognized country-wide for the great work that government and Dr Henry have done.”

He said that a longer-term strategy he had championed during his time as mayor of Cranbrook to attract general practitioners to the riding could be able to help with tackling Continued on Page 4

Supreme court hears sticky case The Supreme Court of Canada has agreed to hear a case involving the $10 million fine imposed on one of the ringleaders of the Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist of 2011-2012.

Richard Vallieres was ordered to pay $10 million in fines and compensation after being found guilty of fraud, trafficking in stolen goods and theft after 9,500 barrels of maple syrup went missing from a Quebec warehouse in 2011 and 2012.

The Quebec Court of Appeal had ruled the $10 million fine excessive and reduced it to $1 million, but Quebec prosecutors have appealed that decision, with the Supreme Court to hear the case.

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Qualizza to sit on UBCM executive

Mayor Qualizza was elected third vice president of the UBCM last week Scott Tibballs The Free Press Editor

Kootenay businesses achieve international success with Export Navigator How small businesses are finding new customers in changing times most helpful. Every business is different, which is why we take the time to get to know our clients so that we can offer the best possible service. Our clients want to expand and they want to contribute to their community; that is always top of mind for our advisors.”

Export Navigator client Popov Leather.

As a year of uncertainty continues, it has become more critical than ever for small businesses to nd creative ways to succeed, and many are turning to Export Navigator for advice and support.

Operating across B.C., the free Export Navigator Program has been helping businesses grow since 2016 — now, it’s stepping in to help businesses like Popov Leather from Nelson to innovate and adapt.

Export Navigator is a free program that connects business owners with a local export advisor who can help them nd new customers beyond B.C. From growth planning to information about exporting, business owners across the province have applied free advisor support to expand with condence.

Throughout the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, the advisors at Export Navigator have been helping businesses nd ways to pivot and succeed in the face of new challenges — such as taking advantage of e-commerce platforms and learning how to access government funding resources. With more businesses turning to the program, its success stories now span a range of industries and countries.

Program manager, Allison Boulton believes it’s the local aspect of Export Navigator that has been fundamental to its success in helping small businesses:

Nelson-based export advisor Michael Hoher has been working with businesses across the Kootenays to help them export.

One of Michael’s success stories is Popov Leather, an artisan leather wallet and belt manufacturer based out of Nelson. Since 85% of Popov’s sales came from outside of Canada, founder Ryan Popoff knew that exporting was fundamental to the success and resilience of his business, but he required expert guidance to ensure that he was following the best practices of complicated foreign market regulations — and that’s where Michael bridged the knowledge gap. Armed with new insight on how to protect his international growth, Popov founder Ryan successfully optimized his export strategy and made his business more resilient.

“Michael helped direct me towards areas of focus that I would not have realized, such as taking into consideration cultural differences when approaching distant markets or foreign market requirements for importing goods, such as labeling.”

From solo startups with a small customer base to larger corporations that already export to some select markets, Export Navigator is available to businesses of all sizes in the Kootenays and across B.C. To continue helping businesses in the Kootenay Region, the free program is accepting online applications. To support underrepresented groups, businesses owned by Indigenous Peoples, women, and youth can expect specialized support and are also encouraged to apply.

Export Navigator gratefully acknowledges that we live, work, and play on the traditional territories of the Indigenous Peoples of British Columbia.

“I often hear business owners telling me that it’s the regional element of Export Navigator that is

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Michael Hoher Export Advisor for the Kootenays We help Kootenay businesses grow by guiding them through gh the export process. Join the free program through your local ad advisor.

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In what she described as an “absolute flurry” of communications, Mayor Ange Qualizza has been elected as third vice president in the Union of BC Municipalities (UCBM) 20202021 executive during the virtual 2020 UBCM conference.

Qualizza was elected in a run-off election following a tie in the first round of voting.

“Covid-19 is going to be the largest disrupter to our local economies we have ever experienced, and UBCM has an excellent relationship with the provincial government,” she said.

“I hope that I can lend my skills to advocate for continued commitment from the province on the economic recovery package and rebuilding strategy that will see investment come to communities like Fernie.”

Qualizza said that her positions held on

various external boards had proven invaluable to Fernie, and her new position as third vice president was no exception.

“As chair of the Resort Communities the fourteen of us rolled up our sleeves, wrote and presented a 200-million dollar rebuilding strategy that includes creating a funding steam that focuses on infrastructure investment to help communities like Fernie address; livability challenges, work force housing issues and supports our environmental commitments.

“This was met with success, and Minister Beare before the election was announced, met for the first time with 33 communities that all serve the tourism industry and introduced a funding stream that was designed to support us to strengthen our communities.

“This was a great result from our shared advocacy, and I hope that my role as 3rd VP for UBCM can bring more investment back to rural BC.”

Fernie Food Action Strategy hosts community engagement night Soranne Floarea The Free Press Reporter

The Fernie Food Action Strategy, a group dedicated to fostering greater food resiliency in the Elk Valley, hosted a virtual community conversation on Sept. 23 to discuss vulnerabilities in Fernie’s food system.

The organization was created by Dawn Deydey and Gaetane Carignan, who noticed the fragility of the local food system in light of the pandemic.

The Fernie Food Action Strategy hopes to remove barriers to accessing local food by identifying gaps in the Elk Valley’s food web. The organization hopes to engage local governments to revise policies and actions, begin food security initiatives, shorten supply chains, and develop a food strategy that enables enhanced local food production.

At the public engagement meeting, attendees discussed the preliminary results of a public survey that assesses the current challenges and successes of accessing locally grown food.

According to Carignan, survey results are indicating that the majority of respondents purchased extra pantry staples at the onset of the pandemic – including rice, beans and canned foods – pointing to the need for greater

food security within the Elk Valley.

In response to the public engagement meeting, organizers are going to be reviewing what other communities are doing to foster greater food resiliency and consider bringing those solutions into the Elk Valley.

Other ideas brought up at the meeting to help strengthen the food system include shared community food infrastructure such as land use or green houses.

Carignan also expressed gratitude towards the Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) for their support in recognizing agriculture as a strategic priority.

Specifically, the CBT is currently working with British Columbia’s Ministry of Agriculture to complete studies looking into the needs of the region in terms of agricultural innovation.

The Food Action Strategy’s public survey will remain open until Oct. 31, after which the feedback received at the virtual meeting along with survey results will be compiled into a Food Action Strategy document and presented to council at an upcoming council meeting.

Another online engagement session will also be held in the new year, following the creation of a draft strategy.

For more information or to provide input, visit communityenergy.ca/projects/foodaction/.

Conservation Officers seek public assistance Conservation Officers are seeking public assistance in the search for individuals related to the poaching of a mule deer buck within Elkford town limits. According to Conservation Officer Ryan Gordon, at around 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 22, a mule deer buck was poached off Hwy. 43 inside Elkford town limits.

“Witness reports indicate 2 males in a black mid 90’s lifted Chevrolet truck were seen in area,” said officer Gordon. “Although Mule deer season is open, discharging firearms on highways is illegal as is shooting within town limits.”

Anyone with information relating to this illegal The location Conservation Officers allege the poaching activity please contact the RAPP line 1-877-952- took place within Elkford town limits. It is north of the 7277. intersection with Alpine Way.

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October Hours Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 10am to 4pm Elkford Secondary School PE 10-12 students climbed Old Growth and Spineback trails with their teacher, Andrew Gulyas last week. (Photo contributed by Andrew Gulyas)

Elkford Secondary School’s PE 10-12: Resiliency, and Grit Contributed by Andrew Gulyas Elkford Secondary School

On September 23rd, 18 grade 10-12 students from Elkford Secondary School set off on an epic adventure into Fernie. They planned to go on a hike that was nearly 12km long and a 732 meter climb into the Lizard Range.

These strong and resilient students began their trip at the Old Growth Trail. This was a beautiful hike, where students saw many cedar trees that were hundreds of years old, and travelled up through a very diverse and lush ecosystem. Once students made it to the top of the Old Growth Trail, they stopped for a break

overlooking the beautiful mountains and pristine Island Lake. Students were able to rest and recover from their “warm up” hike.

Once everyone felt rested and ready, students left the comfortable and calming shores of their newly found pristine mountain lake and headed to their upcoming adventure, Spineback.

As soon as the students were at the base of the trail, they all looked up at the first pitch, and were immediately daunted by the steepness and magnanimous mountain in front of them. The confidence that is so often associated with teens, vanished for a few moments. This trepidation

Elkford seeks to upgrade Boivin Creek Recreation Corridor The District of Elkford is looking for feedback on desired improvements to the Boivin Creek Recreation Corridor in downtown Elkford, in hopes of bettering the usability and accessibility of the corridor.

The call for engagement coincides with the district’s application for grant funding through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

Though district staff are in the process of finalizing the application’s scope, the draft currently sits at a total cost of $1,270,000.

According to Jeremy Johnston, Director of Planning and Development Services, council directed to apply for the full cost of features including the creation of a dirt jump park for mountain bikes and non-motorized BMX bikes, upgrades to trails, benches, and signage, skate park improvements, better lighting and security for Devonian Park, and replacing surfaces in the basketball and tennis courts.

“The bike pump track/dirt jump

park for mountain bikes has received a lot of recent attention from the community, and it had previously underwent significant planning work in 2018,” said Johnston.

“This grant provides an opportunity to deliver that project while also making other important improvements to this recreation corridor,” said Johnston.

“Upgrading Elkford’s skate park is another project that has generated enthusiasm, receiving attention from the Elkford Youth Action Network.”

The aforementioned improvements support Elkford’s Official Community Plan in helping create a livable and vibrant community while supporting an active population through inclusive recreational and leisure spaces.

To offer input on how the upgrades will benefit the community or to suggest other improvements for the corridor, email tchorneyko@elkford. ca or visit the District of Elkford’s website.

dissipated once the group of young adults decided to tackle their first steps up this daunting trail.

Students wrestled their way up Spineback’s steep and winding trails, through mature forests and into the rocky alpine section of the hike. It was evident how grueling and challenging this hike was, there was doubt and uncertainty if we as a whole could make it to the summit; however, once students were in the alpine, for the first time in many of their lives, there was an evident second wind!

A new sense of collective determination to make it to the top.

The students scrambled over rock faces and climbed over rocky sections

of the trail. Students supported each other, helped each other and willed themselves to success.

The wave of satisfaction for everyone that made it to the top was palpable, the sense of camaraderie that connected this group was mesmerizing. The students truly accomplished something they did not think was possible and overcame the challenges in front of them. To see the satisfaction of accomplishing something that many thought was impossible, was truly inspiring.

This adventure, this challenge, this accomplishment showed the resiliency, and grit that our young people can have today. Great hustle!

Public Welcome Noon to 3pm 492 3rd Avenue | 250.423.4458 email information@fernieheritagelibrary.com https://fernie.bc.libraries.coop

Free ebook and audiobook downloads from your Library!

Columbia Basin Trust pauses communications The Columbia Basin Trust is pausing all proactive public communication for the duration of the current election period.

As such, the Trust will also postpone posting their renewed Strategic Plan until communications restart.

All of the Trust’s programs and

services, alongside their work with local residents and organizations, will continue to operate throughout the duration of the election.

Feedback, comments, suggestions and recommendations are also still accepted.

For more information visit ourtrust.org or call 1-800-505-8998.

City of Fernie transport plan The City of Fernie is improving their transportation system via the development of an Active Transportation Master Plan (ATMP), an initiative devoted to creating a more balanced and sustainable mobility network.

At the moment, the city’s transportation consulting engineers are analyzing traffic to create a model that provides a greater understanding of current transportation volumes and patterns.

The City of Fernie is still accepting public insights on Fernie’s current transportation system until Oct. 12.

For more information or to provide feedback, head to letstalk.fernie.ca.

Visit the Sparwood Library website: Sparwood.bc.libraries.coop Click on the Library to Go Icon, enter your library card number and start reading in minutes on your tablet or phone.

Contact the Sparwood Library if you forgot your library number or password 250-425-2299

Page A4 Thursday, October 1, 2020

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Annual General Meeting Sparwood Senior Citizen’s Society Tuesday, October 6, 2020 7:00 p.m.

Sparwood Seniors Centre Complete, Partial and Immediate Denture.

Emergency Repairs, Relines and Sport Mouthguards.

After hours appointments available.

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250-423-7236 302A 2nd Avenue, Fernie, BC V0B 1M0

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Stetski: Health, wildlife and hunting, and education to be priorities Continued from Page 1 the pandemic going forward.

On wildlife and hunting, Stetski - whose previous career was in parks, wildlife and ecosystems said “its important for the people in the riding to know that having been involved in the environment and wildlife my entire life, that I will always be there for wildlife and for local knowledge and using local knowledge to benefit wildlife. And I will always be there for people who hunt and fish.”

He also said that if elected he would campaign for a new secondary school to be built in Fernie.

“Fernie has had a real growth in young people and families coming into the community, to the point of where their elementary school has nine portables to try and handle the number of kids … we need to absolutely need to keep working on that for Fernie going forward.”

Along with his top tree priorities for the immediate campaign, Stetski said a major focus would be working together with Teck and supporting the mining communities of the Elk Valley.

“I have always been supportive of the Elk Valley mines, and the miners and the many many people that earn their living working in those mines. The only suggestions or concerns that I have brought up in the past have been, I would much prefer if we could create the steel right here in Canada rather than having it created in China and Japan and buying that steel back.

“Of course, we do need to deal with the selenium issue in the rivers, but I know Teck is

working very hard to try and resolve that issue.”

On the double environmental assessments being carried out on Teck’s Castle Project, Stetski indicated he was supportive of environmental assessments as they were designed to make major projects as environmentally friendly as possible.

“In the end the intent is to make (mining projects) work for the environment as well as for the future,” he said, adding that relationships he had built in Ottawa during his time as MP would help with discussions around mining operations in the valley.

Stetski also touched on housing affordability in Fernie, saying that it was important for provincial and federal programs to step up.

“It should not fall to municipalities and municipal taxpayers in my mind to have to work on affordable housing - although there’s pressure to do that,” he said.

“We do need to rely on infrastructure funding from the provincial and federal governments.”

Finally, he said it was growing more important as time went on for communities to lock down food security and local food initiatives.

“We’ve got to move away from a geo-global approach to buying food,” he said.

If elected, Stetski also said he would be looking in to setting up a part-time constituency office in the Elk Valley after COVID-19 was under control.

He said it was important to have an office in the Elk Valley so that constituents didn’t have to drive to Cranbook, though this effort was dependent on funding available.

Wayne Stetski has been nominated at the NDP candidate for Kootenay East in the upcoming 2020 BC provincial election. (File photo) “I need to review the budget for the Kootenay East MLA but this is a priority for me.”

The provincial election will be held on Oct. 24.

Fernie installs new railway safety decals Part of Rail Safety Week, the signs promote railway safety at one of Fernie’s rail crossings Soranne Floarea The Free Press Reporter

In honour of this year’s Rail Safety Week, running from Sept. 21 until Sept. 27, the City of Fernie installed a number of railway safety decals at the Fourth Street and First Avenue railway crossing.

The initiative is a part of Operation Lifesaver’s Community Safety Partnership Program, promoting rail safety awareness Mike Lovecchio, Mayor Ange Qualizza, and Chris Gingras stand alongside RCMP officers at the unveiling and public education in an effort to prevent collisions at crossings. of the new railway safety decals. (Soranne Floarea/ “The railroad runs right through the The Free Press) heart of town and is an indelible part of the fabric of our community,” said Mayor Ange Qualizza.

“Promoting awareness and helping people make safe decisions around tracks and trains are important initiatives that help contribute

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to the safety of our residents and visitors.”

The decals alert pedestrians to ‘look, listen and live’, and are positioned on both sides of the sidewalk.

“We are very happy to have the decals in place for Rail Safety Week,” said Mike Lovecchio, Director of Government Affairs for the Canadian Pacific Railway.

“There is no steering wheel aboard the train. Given the amount of foot traffic that comes over this crossing, it is helpful for people to always expect the train, to always look both ways, and to never stay around the crossing when its active. That way we can all stay safe.”

The Community Safety Partnership Program is currently taking place in 39 municipalities throughout the country. For more information, visit operationlifesaver.ca.

at the Fernie Curling Club

Registration Night!

Fernie Curling Club Wednesday, October 7th 7-9 pm at The Curling Club Lounge Online Registrations available at www.ferniecurling.com/news-events Masks will be mandatory.

Register for All Curlers: Open Adult League - Beginners Welcome - Seniors League

For more information 250-423-6553 email ferniecurling@gmail.com

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Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A5

Rotary Scramble brings scavengers together FCC: with some exceptions, summer wasn’t so bad after all

Scott Tibballs The Free Press Editor

Eight weeks of clues and adventure have wrapped up with the inaugural Fernie Rotary Summer Scramble coming to an end.

11 teams took part in the eight-week scavenger hunt, with one team - “Mud, Sweat and Beers” getting every clue across two divisions correct - a total of 80 overall.

“It was a lot of fun, and after a couple of weeks the teams were starting to run into each other coming and going from various clues, so they set up a lot of camaraderie,” said Fernie Rotary Treasurer Aysha Haines.

“It’s been a tonne of fun watching these groups really start to gel together.”

Each week, Fernie Rotary released

five clues in two divisions - one for clues in town (the ramble division), and another for clues out of town on the trails (the scramble division) - and it was up to the teams to find each of them and take selfies at the correct location to enter into the draw for the grand prize. Each correct guess was another entry.

The grand prize was $500 worth of gift certificates to local businesses of the winners’ choice, with a grand prize for each division, and snap prizes each week for the first group to get clues correct.

“One of our teams that won the scramble grand prize draw chose to get three $30 certificates to give to some of their competitor teams that they enjoyed playing the game with all summer,” said Haines.

“They really all bonded together as a group.”

That said, Haines added that Fernie Rotary was back at the drawing board for fundraising ideas for the coming winter given it was impossible to hold many popular events in 2020.

While the scavenger hunt didn’t raise any money, Haines said “it was enough of a success that we’ll do it again next year,” with a few tweaks of course.

For now, Fernie Rotary will focus on helping other community groups raise funds, as the Rotary is able to continue offering its high school scholarships for the next year or so even while cut off from its most popular fundraising events.

“One of the things that Fernie Rotary is good at is rolling with it, and right now we’re rolling with it.”

Winners of the $500 ramble grand prize for the Fernie Rotary Summer Ramble (left) and Scramble (right) (Photos contributed)

Scott Tibballs The Free Press Editor

In an end-of-summer chamber zoom call, chamber president Brad Parsell said that all things considered, summer had turned out to be enough of a success for optimism to be creeping into businesses around town as they looked towards winter. ”I think (summer) was busier than we all thought (it would be),” said Parsell afterwards.

“I think it was probably a more successful summer than some of us had feared. That’s not to say there weren’t people that struggled,” he added, pointing to hardship for local operators in the fly fishing sector as well as for the Fernie movie theatre.

Tourism Fernie has also reported a better summer than had been feared, with many operators and accomodators managing to outperform not just pessimistic numbers for the 2020 season, but numbers seen in the year prior.

More than 40 Fernie businesses tuned into the zoom update on Thursday, and Parsell said among chamber members there was “positivity” around winter.

“I think we can be somewhat positive about winter. We all

know as tourism operators that the vast majority of our visitation in winter is Canadian anyway usually.

We’re not a Whistler or a Banff, where having the border close is a complete deal-breaker,” he said.

“There’s an exception to everything, but as a general statement, the demand’s going to be there on the tourism side, and we’re pretty confident we’re going to have the workforce. The pinch point is going to be housing, there’s no doubt about it.”

Parsell explained that given the changed dynamic in work forces, many people with second homes in Fernie could likely be planning on using them over winter and working remotely, denying the town a vital source of housing for seasonal workers and visiting tourists. Another issue with housing is unease in renting out rooms to strangers given the pandemic.

The combination of these factors “could see our housing stock, which is already not enough, reduce even more.”

“We’re somewhat cautiously optimistic about demand and we’re optimistic about the labour force, but we’re pretty concerned about where everyone’s going to live.”

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Established in Fernie, B.C. in 1898 and published weekly each Thursday by The Free Press, a division of Black Press Group Ltd. and distributed throughout the Elk Valley and South Country. Free circulation 6,000.

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Editorial

by Scott Tibballs If ever there was a time for community groups, advocates and activists to get busy with campaigning and raising the profile of their work, it’s during an election, and Kootenay East is no exception.

Incumbent, wannabe and hopeful politicians will be sniffing around the riding over the next three and a half weeks looking for projects and initiatives to get behind and support, and there is no shortage of organisations that could do with a helping hand.

We won’t be seeing too many volunteer doorknocking campaigns or politicians shaking hands and kissing babies, but the wide open spaces and fewer faces of the Elk Valley mean we could be seeing them nonetheless.

Here in Kootenay East we are fortunate to have an incumbent provincial MLA and a former federal MP running, meaning that during COVID-times, it’s relatively easy to read back through track records and promises to have a good look at where they stand and what they do and don’t take seriously.

The Free Press hopes that voters will be offered even more choice in this election, with nominations closing tomorrow (Oct. 2). As of writing, three candidates are known.

Political games aside, voters are hard-pressed to find a politician that doesn’t genuinely hold the interests of their communities close to their hearts.

Broadly, the choice for British Columbians is a tough one mainly due to general exhaustion with 2020, with voters given the chance to pass judgement on six months of the province’s pandemic response efforts.

While many are weary in general, British Columbians are indicating satisfaction with the efforts.

Polling indicates that if the election were today, the Premier would be returned to office with a thumping majority in the Legislature, having successfully wed the government’s fortunes to the success of the provincial health authorities.

For the bubble that is the Elk Valley where the pandemic seldom reached, priorities may be different, but we cannot lose sight of the fact that whoever represents us in Victoria, they will be part of efforts to help the entire province recover from the economic pain inflicted by the pandemic.

Those that campaign here can be expected to touch on it often and as a chief priority.

Readers are encouraged to let The Free Press know what their priorities are in this election.

Beyond the pandemic and community health, we will be on the lookout for what candidates have to say about economic recovery, jobs in the valley, housing affordability and environmental concerns as the campaign goes on.

Happy campaigning.

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Scott Tibballs

Soranne Floarea

Rikki Christie

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Letters to the Editor

Feed families, not bears I am writing this letter to thank Rachel Dortman, Elk Valley Homesteading and all the volunteers involved in picking fruit. Fruit is a bear attractant, just like garbage but more consistent and more reliable. It teaches bears that they can find food near people. This can be dangerous for the people in your community and for the bears.

Thanks for being a good neighbor and not putting your neighborhood in harm’s way by picking all fruit as soon as possible and assisting elderly neighbors who may be unable to pick their fruit. Consider pruning and/or removing fruit trees and replacing them with native non-fruit bearing trees.

Keeping garbage away from bears and cleaning up fruit trees will result in a cleaner and safer community for everyone.

Kathy Murray West Fernie

Fernie can do better I am writing today to express my concerns regarding COVID 19 and the behaviour I am observing throughout our community.

Currently in Fernie few customers or even staff are wearing masks while inside retail establishments. Some customers even bypass supplied hand sanitizer, don’t maintain social distancing recommendations and continue about their regular business like the world we live in is not in the middle of a pandemic. I thought I would try dining at some of the many patios throughout town, however I observed that even the servers and wait staff rarely wear masks while taking and delivering orders to patrons. We as a community can do better. I believe in science and I know that we can all help our community and our country through these trying times. Having schools and businesses close can be prevented if we all act together. Wearing masks indoors in public places should be mandatory throughout our community.

We are lucky to live in such a beautiful uncrowded town, but I think we are letting our guard down if we believe that we are immune from having a Covid 19 case or an outbreak here.

Catherine Mullan Fernie

Sparling East Playground contract awarded, works to start ASAP Scott Tibballs The Free Press Editor

City of Fernie councillors have voted to award the contract for the Sparling East Playground to BDI Play Designs - the winner out of eight submissions for the project.

In a unanimous decision at the Sept. 28 council meeting, councillors followed staff recommendation to award the $160,000 contract with staff recommending the price be negotiated to include swings and site clearing.

In the staff submission to council, it was recommended action be taken as soon as possible to ensure that the nearby neighbourhoods have the park available for use by next year. “With the construction season coming to an end it’s important to make as much progress in 2020 in

the planning and construction to be able to provide the neighborhood with a playground for use in 2021,� read the report.

Sparling East Playground will be located near the Parkland Terrace, Alpine Trails and Burma Estates subdivisions, on the corner of Burma Rd and Parkland Dr. BDI’s submission for the project was noted by staff to meet the most criteria defined by a public survey and received the highest score when assessed by the city based on their proposed play equipment, warranty, company location (Lethbridge), reputation and tailored proposal for the site.

A public survey had identified the inclusion of extensive climbing The location of the Sparling East Playground. (Image: City of Fernie) equipment as the priority for most participants, with more than 60 important feature of an outdoor swings, while slides and a playhouse/ percent of respondents choosing play area. sheltered area received nine and six climbing equipment as the most Another 20 per cent opted for per cent respectively.

City of Fernie accepts nominations for George S. Majic Spiritus Award Soranne Floarea The Free Press Reporter

The City of Fernie is now accepting nominations for the annual George S. Majic Spiritus award, which is presented to a resident who enhances life in Fernie through their passionate, long-standing and selfless commitment to the community. “City Council continues to support the George S Majic Spiritus Awards because it is a wonderful way to continue a

tradition that recognizes members of our community for their extraordinary contributions,� said Mayor Ange Qualizza. “Council did not design the award, but I can assure you, the most remarkable part of the event is getting to meet people in our community I mostly would not know and thank them for their service. It truly is a celebration of people who very quietly lean in and work tirelessly to make our community a better place.�

The award is in the name of

George S. Majic, a respected attorney who practiced law in the Fernie area until his passing in 2003. Originally from Sault Ste. Marie, Majic was heavily involved in the community, having sat on the school board, been elected for city council twice, and supported a number of community enterprises such as the Rocky Mountain Junior Hockey League.

Though no age restrictions are in place on recipients, the nominees must have a history

of community contributions for upwards of three years, be previously unnoticed by the city, and not ask for recognition or reward for their efforts.

Anyone looking to nominate another resident had to do so by filling out the call for nominations form found on the City of Fernie’s Facebook page or website prior to Sept. 28.

This year’s award recipient will be recognized at the Regular Council Meeting held on Oct. 26.

www.thefreepress.ca

CITY OF FERNIE BRITISH COLUMBIA

The Free Press

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A7

CONNECTION

City of Fernie CONNECTION | Community Information and Opportunities | www.fernie.ca Location Change Upcoming Meetings of Council Fernie Community Centre 902 Hwy. 3 •Tuesday, October 13 Regular Meeting at 7:00pm •Monday, October 19 Committee of the Whole Meeting at 1:00 pm •Monday, October 26 Regular Meeting at 7:00pm City Hall Ph: 250.423.6817 Fx: 250.423.3034 Email: cityhall@fernie.ca Website: www.fernie.ca 501-3rd Avenue, Box 190 Fernie, British Columbia V0B 1M0 Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 am-4pm (Closed statutory holidays) After Hours Phone: 250.423.4226 Fernie Aquatic Centre 250 Pine Avenue Phone: 250.423.4466 Fernie Memorial Arena 1092 Highway 3 For all Police, Ambulance or Fire related emergencies: Call 911

Employment Opportunity: Chief Street Operator The City of Fernie is inviting applications from qualified persons for the following full-time permanent position: Chief Street Operator Reporting to the Manager of Streets and Utilities, the Chief Street Operator position is the lead working member of the streets crew and is responsible for assigning and overseeing day-to-day tasks, ensuring work efficiency, and facilitating on-the-job training and instruction for operators.

To view the full job posting and application details visit fernie.ca/jobs.

The deadline to apply for this position is 4:00 p.m., Friday, October 9, 2020.

Fruit Trees and Bears

The City of Fernie would like to remind residents that fruit laden trees are a bear attractant, and that it is important to ensure you are making plans to pick ripe fruit, and not allowing fruit to accumulate on the ground.

It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure there are no unnatural food sources available to attract bears into residential areas. The Waste Regulation Bylaw No. 1845 specifies that it is unlawful to accumulate, place or store wildlife attractants.

For households that don’t have anywhere safe and secure to store garbage between collection days, there are options available. The Let’s Talk Fernie Fernie Transfer Station is open daily, and the City of Fernie also provides We want to hear from you about communal bear-resistant dumpsters to residents free of charge 24/7 in our Active Transportation Master the following locations: City Hall, Max Turyk Community Centre, Fernie Plan! Have your say until October Aquatic Centre and Fernie Memorial Arena.

13, 2020.

By complying with the Waste Regulation Bylaw No. 1845 and keeping Go to letstalk.fernie.ca to take your property free of wildlife attractants bears will move on, resulting in the online survey and share your a safer community, and avoiding the unnecessary destruction of bears. experiences and thoughts on Your help and compliance is appreciated. active transportation in the City of For more information or to report a complaint contact Bylaw Services Fernie.

250.423.2244 or bylawservices@fernie.ca

Parking Reminders The City of Fernie would like to remind the public that parking is reserved for mobile vending vehicles on 6th Street between 1st and 2nd Avenue, as marked by signage and painted curbs.

This area is regularly monitored, and unauthorized vehicles parked will be ticketed.

In accordance with Streets and Traffic Bylaw No. 1400, the City of Fernie would also like to remind residents that unless permitted by a sign (traffic control device), no person shall stop, stand or park a motor vehicle: • in a manner contrary to a sign; • for a continuous period in excess of 72 hours unless posted otherwise; • as to block the movement of vehicles into or out of a driveway, private road, garage, carport or parking lot adjoining the highway; • so that any portion of the vehicle is adjacent to a curb painted yellow or red; • facing in the opposite direction to the flow of traffic.

To learn more about these and other bylaws, visit www.fernie.ca

Page A8 Thursday, October 1, 2020

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The Free Press

D ISTRI C T O F SPA RWO O D Box 520, 136 Spruce Avenue, Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0 Phone: 250.425.6271 | Fax: 250.425.7277 Email: sparwood@sparwood.ca

www.Sparwood.ca

Upcoming Meetings of Council

Parking Regulations

in Council Chambers • 136 Spruce Avenue

October 1 – March 31

•Tuesday, October 6, 2020 Regular Meeting at 6:00 pm •Tuesday, October 20, 2020 Regular Meeting at 6:00 pm

Fire Prevention Week October 4-10, 2020 During Fire Prevention Week, we are given the opportunity to tell all of our firefighters just how much they are appreciated by Council and residents of Sparwood. Sometimes they are taken for granted until we need them in an emergency and only then do we truly recognize the courage and strength they personify.

The District of Sparwood is proud to salute our firefighters!

We extend a heartfelt thanks to all our skilled and qualified firefighters for their dedication, commitment to fire rescue, training, fire safety and education, and pay tribute to them during Fire Prevention Week.

Bears in and around our Community It is that time of year to start thinking about picking your fruit trees and clean up all the windfalls before bears start coming into the community looking for easy food sources to bulk up before hibernation.

The District would like to remind residents not to place their garbage out on the curb before 5:00 am on collection day. Garbage should be placed in the bearresistant carts with the clips locked or in a secure garage, shed or inside your house until collection day. Remember to unclip the bear-resistant locks after placing the cart at the curb on collection day. Excess garbage should be taken to the Transfer Station which is open from 9 am to 5 pm Monday thru Saturday (excluding statutory holidays).

It is important for residents to lock up their refuse and keep other bear attractants, such as fruit trees bearing over-ripe fruit, or easily accessible bird feeders, pet food, and BBQs (drip pans/grease cans), out of a bear’s reach.

Remember that a fed bear is a dead bear.

Reminder to residents that the District’s Off-Street Parking Regulations came into effect on October 1st. The Sparwood Traffic, Parking and Highway Regulation Bylaw No. 472, 1987 prohibits on-street parking between 6:00 am to 4:00 pm from October 1 to March 31 inclusive. Residents should note that: • Parking on the street during snow plowing, snow removal, snow hauling, or sanding operations is prohibited; • That no advance warning is required under the bylaw and section 189 (1) (n) of the Motor Vehicle Act and offending vehicles will be towed; and • It is an offence under the Community Standards Bylaw to push, place or throw or allow to be pushed, placed or thrown any snow or ice upon a highway or lane.

Please make appropriate arrangements for parking your vehicles.

No Shooting Area The map below is provided as general information only and outlines the area designated by bylaw where the discharge of a firearm is prohibited except as permitted by Firearm Regulation Bylaw No. 540.

Firearm includes a rifle, shotgun, handgun or spring gun and any device that propels a projectile by means of an explosion, compressed gas or spring, including a crossbow.

The complete bylaw is available on our website at www.Sparwood.ca.

www.thefreepress.ca

The Free Press

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A21

. SOUTH COUNTRY/RURAL AND RECREATIONAL PROPERTIES .

561A Hwy #3, Fernie, BC • Phone: 250.423.4644 Toll Free: 1.888.870-9064

2270 Jaffray Shop Road, Jaffray, BC • Phone: 250.421.3629

uced

Price Red

Lot 10 Silver Springs Crossing

SOLD Nancy McNay, PREC 2442403

#27 - 6674 Wardner Kikomun Road $1,375,000

Lot 50 - 6324 Laurier St

Stunning executive home in a rural gated community overlooking the beautiful Koocanusa. 3600 sq.ft home with 4/5 bdrms & 3 baths.

$89,000 All services are to your properties edge. Shed comes with the property and is ready to build.

Call Carrie Lightburn MLS 2452419

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Lot 2 Silver Springs Crossing

$1,075,000

$159,000

1.2 acres of privacy within this gated community of Koocanusa Ranch is looking over Lake Koocanusa and Chipka Creek.

Building Lots located in Silver Springs Crossing in Elko.

Nancy McNay, PREC 2442434

Nancy McNay 2434079

5518 Edwards Road

SOLD Carrie Lightburn 2453460

Nancy McNay, PREC 2441398

Lot A TBD Road

$649,000 One of the last waterfront lots (0.75 acre) you can build on at Rosen Lake! Extremely Rare Opportunity!

Frank Hughes 2431378

442 Currie Road $575,000

This fixer upper lakefront cabin is ready for a new family to enjoy.

2 bdrms & 1 bath on a huge .424 acres with direct access to the lake.

Call Britainy Ernst MLS 2452071

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20 Olsen Road

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#11 Jaffray Baynes Lake Rd

$154,900

$135,900

$179,000

$184,900

$479,900

Beautiful ready to build walkout lot. This building lot has the driveway to the build site already done for you.

This opportunity for a 1.05 acre build site, located in the heart of Jaffray. Jaffray is centrally located between Fernie and Cranbrook.

Builder friendly lot, has privacy and beautifully treed, with an open area for starting that build.

Well, hydro & phone available.

Affordable family RV lot for sale in Koocanusa Resorts, offers full services including sewer hookup, electrical plug-ins and fresh water.

This gorgeous .86 of acre lot offers you everything you could ask for in a property and more!

With your own private beachfront.

Nancy McNay, PREC 2450171

Nancy McNay, PREC 2451980

Nancy McNay, PREC 2439350

Carrie Lightburn 2452303

Jason Andreola 2454021

5210 Green Road $789,000 This very private location on Green Road is close to Lake Koocanusa.

You’ll find this 80 acres is a piece of quiet heaven Call Nancy McNay, PREC MLS 2454615

Lot 2 Baynes Lake Loop Rd

Lot A Jaffray Baynes Lake Rd

6266 Tie Lake Shore Rd N

Lot 4 Baynes Lake Loop Rd

$299,000

$569,900

$479,900

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Located just before the Baynes Lake market heading east on the right. 3.30 acres.

Price Reduced! Spectacular square log home located in a private area of Tie Lake on 2 separately titled lots totalling 1.08 acres.

Waterfront. The one word that says it all! Don’t miss out on this stunning Waterfront lot located on beautiful Baynes Lake.

Nancy McNay, PREC 2450518

Jason Andreola 2433753

Jason Andreola 2454022

Lot 55 Marcer Road

SL A-B 7056 Rosen Lake Rd

Lot #5 Baynes Lake Loop Rd

$149,000

$239,000

$599,000

Located on the Terrace at Koocanusa Village. Views of the lake and mountains are stunning.

This is a gorgeous lot with 2.5 acres. Grassy, gently sloping with mature trees and beautiful mountain views.

Beautiful Shoreline Waterfront property with 200+ ft of shoreline on 1.25 acres. This size of property is a rare find on the water.

Nancy McNay, PREC 2453723

Carrie Lightburn 2452502

Nancy McNay, PREC 2450430

Lot 1 Baynes Lake Loop Road $399,900 This gorgeous 1.64 acre lot offers you everything you could ask for in a property and more!

With your own private beachfront.

Call Jason Andreola MLS 2454020

Lot 7 Renfrew Road

SOLD Carrie Lightburn 2453473

Lt 14 Silver Springs Crossing

$114,900 Beautifully treed lot, makes for a fantastic walk-out, very private, tucked away in the corner and bordering crown land.

Nancy McNay, PREC 2450564

Candace Grey

Jason Andreola

Frank Hughes

Nancy J. McNay

Lori Russell

Paula Smith

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Britainy Ernst

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Page A22 Thursday, October 1, 2020

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The Free Press

Hearts of gold: Elk Valley locals help homeless animals find their humans

Nycki Wannamaker and Puneet Grewal work to home abandoned animals through Twin Meadows Animal Rescue Scott Tibballs The Free Press Editor

Nycki Wannamaker of Fernie loves animals - it’s why she, along with Puneet Grewal came together to found Twin Meadows Animal Rescue.

Based in the Elk Valley, the registered non-profit charity was founded to help foster and home all sorts of animals in need of some love and care.

Wannamaker explained that she had always loved animals and had lived with them her whole life.

“They’re non-judgmental, they can’t talk to us with words so we have to be their advocates and make sure they are healthy and happy and safe,” said Wannamaker.

Twin Meadows was founded to fill a gap in resources available for animals in need of a home.

“The closest rescue to the Elk Valley is Cranbrook, (and) a lot of people found it was too detrimental to drive that far for a found or injured animal, or if they had an overwhelming litter it was too far to go so they were dumped,” said Wannamaker.

“So we needed something closer.”

Twin Meadows provides a place for those animals through a network of foster volunteers that Wannamaker and Grewal reach out to when they have an animal that needs somewhere to stay.

They work hard to ensure animals are matched with the right foster care so that animals receive the best care.

Animals are assigned to volunteer foster homes based on suitability, with Twin Meadows keeping a database on the dynamics of each home, including the size of the home, fenced yards and how many other animals are in the home.

With a database of 76 foster applications, Wannamaker and Grewal are able to match animals with the best fit. Over 30 animals have been helped since Twin Meadows was

Freckles the dog lead the volunteers of Twin Meadows Animal Rescue on a merry chase. (Scott Tibballs / The Free Press)

Nycki Wannamaker with Odin the husky. (Scott Tibballs / The Free Press) founded in March of this year.

Wannamaker said that for all the work, it was well worth it.

“Making the kids smile, saving an animal or placing a previously considered unadoptable pet is a very big reward for me.

Every life saved is rewarding.”

Recently Twin Meadows has been successful in finding homes for Stormy the cat, Missy the cat, Freedom the chihuahua,Skye the chihuahua Red the husky, Jojo the beagle, Ella the lab and Mabel and her six kittens.

A recent donation of $400 from local cannabis outlet Stick & Stone would go a

long way in helping foster and home even more animals, said Wannamaker.

Running an operation like Twin Meadows Animal Rescue doesn’t come cheap - Twin Meadows is a non-profit, and they are always after resources to help in their operations. The recent search and successful capture of a wayward foster, Freckles the Saint Bernard cross, was estimated to have cost around $1,000.

To find out how you can donate to or help Twin Meadows Animal Rescue fulfill it’s goals of giving homes to vulnerable animals, contact Nycki and Puneet at twinmeadowsanimalrescue.com.

LITTLE HOMBRE NEEDS YOUR HELP: This is Hombre. Hombre is a chihauhuacorgi cross and is about 6-8 years old. Hombre is a sweet little dog that sadly has come from an abusive home. Due to arthritis, Hombre can’t be around children because he can nip when in pain, and would prefer a household where he can have his space. Despite this, Hombre has plenty of love to give to the right person that can understand his needs and boundaries. If you’re interested in meeting Hombre or learning more about his personality, reach out to Twin Meadows.

Community support crucial

Oct. 5, 2020 On behalf of The Board of Education of Southeast Kootenay and all its members, a sincere thank you to the teachers in our District for inspiring children with the love of learning.

World Teachers’ Day gives us an opportunity to acknowledge their contributions to education and to share our appreciation for their commitment to students throughout the district.

Thank you for your hard work and dedication which contributes to the overall success of our school district.

(From left to right) Twin Meadows Animal Rescue co-directors Puneet Grewal and Nycki Wannamaker with Stick Stone manager Meaghan Collins, and Stick Stone owner SJ Nelson. Pictured here with Blue, Hombre, Daphne,Skye and Freedom. (Scott Tibballs / The Free Press)

Support from the community and businesses in the Elk Valley is crucial for Twin Meadows Animal Rescue to continue the good work.

Left, the good folks at Stick and Stone Cannabis Co. in Fernie recently donated $400 to the not-for-profit organisation.

The money will go towards vet fees for the various animals under the care of Twin Meadows, with their health and well-being a priority.

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The Free Press

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A23

ELEL^EPHMb Loved Ones

KOPROWSKY (nee Mlyncyk), Teresa Stanislawa (Stella) May 8, 1940 – September 16, 2020

MAYERT, Denis

Place your condolences online. (Visit your local newspaper website, obituary page)

WENDY ELLIS 1950 - 2020

At the age of 80 years with her family at her side Teresa Koprowsky passed away peacefully September 16, 2020. She will be lovingly remembered by her three sons, Mark (Marcy) of Salmon Arm, Allan of Whitehorse, Darren (Sandra) of Salmon Arm; four grandchildren which she was so very proud of, Lisa, Bradley, Brayden and Travis. She was predeceased by her husband Michael last fall and her mother Marianna in 1999.

Teresa was born in Czestochowa, Poland during WWII and as her mother was taken to work in a German factory, she spent most of her childhood in a Polish boarding school. After the war Teresa spent a short time in Kassel, Germany with her mother, but her adventurous spirit lead her away from Europe so on December 8, 1961 speaking very little English, at the age of 21 she set sail for Canada. Arriving in Montreal, Quebec she boarded a train in the middle of winter and set her sights on Edmonton, Alberta where she would end up meeting her future husband.

Shortly after, the family moved to Sparwood, BC to raise a family, she will always be remembered for her lush display of owers and her fantastic cooking. While she had many cookbooks they always seem untouched as her German and Polish hand notes sat proudly near the fridge. While she spoke many European languages, she embraced English and loved to read.

In 2009, she and Michael moved to Salmon Arm to share their time with the “boysâ€? and the grandkids‌.and start many new ower beds.

The family wishes to thank the SLGH sta, Dr Kirkman and the sta at Mt. Ida Mews for their care over the last few months.

In accordance with her wishes a small graveside ceremony will take place at Mt. Ida Cemetery, Monday, September 28 at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of owers, a donation in Teresa’s name can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation.

Share memories and condolences online at www.fischersfuneralservices.com

Wendy Ellis, our beloved sister, Mum, Grandma, and friend passed away at Rocky Mountain Village in Fernie on Sunday, September 20, 2020 at the age of 70 years. She was born in Wortley, SheďŹƒeld, England on April 15, 1950.

Wendy is survived by her sons Andrew (Chrisna) and David, grandsons Eric, Owen, Marcus and Chuck, and her brother Mick. She was predeceased by her father Tadeusz, her husband Brian, her Mum Betty, and her stepdad Jack.

A devoted Mum, Grandma, sister and friend, Wendy spread joy and happiness everywhere she went and never missed an opportunity to meet and chat with someone new.

Thank you, Mum, for the music, the songs, and for all the joy you brought to our lives.

In lieu of owers, donations may be made to Parkinson’s Society of BC. Memories & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

ELK VALLEY CHURCH SERVICES ST. MICHAEL’S PARISH 741B 2nd Ave. Fernie

WELCOMES YOU Sunday Services - 11:00 am Corps Officer: Majors Kirk & Linda Green Fernie Office 250-423-4661 www.FernieSA.ca

Centennial Square, Sparwood YOU ARE INVITED! Mass Times: St. Michael’s Sparwood - Sunday 9:00am (also available via Zoom - contact parish office for the link to join this broadcast) St. Bernard’s Elkford - Sunday 4:00pm Confessions by appointment Pastor: Fr. David 250-425-2327

HOLY FAMILY PARISH Catholic Church (formerly Fernie Baptist Church)

521 4th Avenue, Fernie

1622 10th Avenue, Fernie * 250-423-4112 Sign Up On-Line for Our Fernie Services www.mountainsidechurch.ca

Parish Office 250-423-6127 Masses: Rocky Mountain Village until further notice Saturday: 5:00 pm Sunday: 9:00 am Via Zoom Contact: info@holyfamilyfernie.ca Confessions follow The Parish website

Sunday Services 10:00 & 11:15 am in Fernie 9:45 & 11 am in Sparwood Contact Pastor Shawn Barden shawn@mountainsidechurch.ca

Shared Ministry

KNOX UNITED CHURCH & CHRIST CHURCH ANGLICAN The Rev’d Andrea Brennan Sunday Services 9 a.m. Christ Church (591 4th Ave.) 11 a.m. Knox United (201 2nd Ave.) Welcome All! We are inclusive - friendly - caring. https://www.christchurchfernie.ca/ https://www.knoxunitedfernie bc.ca/

SNOW VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 1361 8th Avenue, Fernie EVERYONE WELCOME Sunday Service...10:00 am Friday Morning Prayer...10:00 am Affiliated with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada.

Contact Pastor Justin Furse justin.svcf@tmail.com https://snowvalleychristianfellowship.com Office 250-423-4114

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Denis Mayert on August 6th, 2020.

Denis was born in Summerland BC to Alec & Jessie Mayert in 1951. Growing up Denis spent time in Horseshoe Bay, Seton Portage and Lillooet. Work opportunities took him to Elkford BC where he resided for over 40 years. Throughout his life Denis worked in the coal mines, ran his own business and prior to retirement was a Crane Operator for RMR. When forced to retire due to his health he moved to Pincher Creek AB where he built some great friendships and focussed on his true passion of collecting and restoring classic cars.

Denis was known for his sense of humour, his ability to tell stories and for being a kind and genuine human being. Above all else he was a loving Dad and loyal friend.

Denis is predeceased by his parents, Alec & Jessie, sister Lavina and nephew Dallas.

He is survived by his daughters, Michelle (Je ) and Carrie (Steven); his siblings, Neil (June), Sharyn (Rick); nieces and nephews; Dale, Gordie, Janet(Don), Tami, Sheldon (Coralee); step children; April (Jeremy), Dean(Sarah), Roy (Zippora) and their families.

A family celebration of Denis’s life will take place in Summerland BC at a later date.

In lieu of owers a donation can be made to the World Wildlife Federation in Denis’s memory.

If tears could build a stairway, and memories a lane, we’d walk right up to heaven and bring you home again.

HARVEY PARTRIDGE 1933 - 2020 It is with great sadness that the family of Harvey Crosbie Partridge announces his passing on Tuesday, September 22, 2020.

Harvey will be lovingly remembered for many things including his humour, strength, work ethic and love and care for his family members. He was young at heart and had a love of fun. He enjoyed playing hockey as a goalie for years, breaking and riding horses, going to Rodeos, spending time in the outdoors, riding dirt bikes and travelling around the world.

He served in the Royal Canadian Air Force in the (F) Squadron in Grostenquin, France and had incredible experiences there that informed the rest of his life. Harvey moved to the Elk Valley area in 1975 to provide a better life for his family. He worked for the mines in Sparwood and obtained his ticket as a boilerman and others in First Aid for Mine Rescue. It is fair to say that Harvey was a caring and kind man, but was strong in his convictions and would stand his ground to anyone, at any time.

Family was very important to Harvey, he was loyal, caring, protective and generous with them. He is predeceased by his wife Norma Jean Bradley and his daughter Jacquie Boreen (nee Partridge).

These were two of the biggest losses in his life. He is survived by his daughter, Natalie Draycott (nee Partridge), his son-in-law David Boreen, his ďŹ ve grandchildren, Ashley, Courtney, Michael, Hayden and Logan, seven great grandchildren, and another little boy on the way, who will be honoured in his name.

Memories & condolences shared at www.cherishedmemoriesfs.com Arrangements entrusted to Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.

Page A24 Thursday, October 1, 2020

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• Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.

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• If you have been in contact with someone with COVID-19, stay home and away from others for 14 days after your last contact with that person.

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Think about the people you have recently been around.

If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, a public health worker may call you to check on your health, discuss who you have been around, and ask where you spent time while you may have been able to spread COVID-19 to others. While you wait for your COVID-19 test result, think about everyone you have been around recently. This will be important information to give health workers if your test is positive.

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The Free Press

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A25

YOUR HOROSCOPE for the week of October 4 to 10, 2020 THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: LEO, VIRGO AND LIBRA ARIES (March 21 - April 19) Germs spread quickly at this time of the year.

In particular, you should take steps to protect your respiratory system. Flu season will come early for you.

BRAIN GAMES CROSSWORDS PUZZLE NO. 049

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) There will be a lot of confusion in the air, but you’ll use the opportunity to speak your mind. You’ll get answers and a fair measure of reassurance about a delicate subject.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) Work and money will occupy most of your thoughts this week. You’ll contemplate your professional future and make changes if it doesn’t line up with your goals.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) You’ll benefit from a shopping spree and possibly a whole new style. Friends will inspire you to follow new trends. You might also discover a new outlook on life as you explore your spirituality.

LEO (July 23 - August 22) There’s a good chance you’ll get that longawaited promotion, which will allow you to balance your work and family life. You’ll also widen your client base and make new connections.

VIRGO (August 23 - September 22) If you have young children, you’ll become more responsible for their care. This won’t prevent you from maintaining an active social life as you’ll participate in more family activities.

ACROSS 1. Leap headfirst 5. Literary work 9. Fore’s opposite 12. Point-scoring serves 13. Volcanic liquid 14. Recognize 15. Golf-ball stands 16. Bone-dry 17. Female fowl 18. Catch 20. Allowed to borrow 22. “____ So Cold” 24. Abilities 27. Yellow-pages fillers 30. Hard wood 31. Separated 32. Say yes to 33. Wrecks 35. Senate vote 36. Overhead 38. Kind of room 39. Studio decor 40. Garble 41. Pairs 43. Fling 46. Gooey 50. Owed 52. Object 54. Naught 55. Beast of burden 56. Body of knowledge 57. Got taller 58. Ante 59. Unbarred 60. ____ out (barely manages)

DOWN 1. Computer fodder 2. Froster 3. Swerve 4. Roadway hazards 5. Raised flatland 6. Rowing implement 7. “____ Woman” 8. “____ in Heaven” 9. Smokers’ receptacles 10. Toll 11. Years in a decade 19. Brief 21. Afternoon sleep 23. Kilt, e.g.

25. Shade source 26. At once, to a doctor

27. Cry of dismay 28. Small valley 29. Plumpest 31. Neckwear 34. Correspondents 37. To’s counterpart 42. Burn, in a way 44. Farm structure 45. Eight-sided sign 47. Bulletin-board material 48. Place for a jeans patch 49. Some evergreens 50. Pinch 51. Put to good ____ 53. Before, to Shelley

ANSWER/LAST WEEK - PUZZLE NO. 048

Copyright © 2020, Penny Press

LIBRA (September 23 - October 22) A friend or family member will announce a spontaneous trip. You’ll need to be more energetic if you want your social life to thrive.

You should also plan to spend more quality time with your partner.

SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21) An unconventional learning experience will leave you feeling inspired. You’ll decipher some disturbing information or understand a message that’s left others perplexed.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 21) Following a dispute or argument, you’ll be able to restore harmony. You’ll also be much more open to compromise. You’ll finally be able to break a few bad habits.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 19) You’ll be more than happy to join in on whatever fun activities your friends propose this week.

Your competitive spirit and an urge to get moving will allow you to quickly get back into shape.

AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18) You’ll be assigned new responsibilities at work that will likely require a wardrobe update. With a fresh look, you’ll feel more confident meeting people and making your presence known.

PISCES (February 19 - March 20) You’ll devote a lot of time and energy to your family this week, and it’ll be hard to get you out of your house. People close to you will count on your generosity, but some might take advantage of it.

PUZZLE NO. 785

HOW TO PLAY : Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.

Answers:

For AdverTising conTAcT MAdi BrAgg advertising@thefreepress.ca 250-423-4666

Page A26 Thursday, October 1, 2020

The Free Press

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Books for Kids fundraiser celebrates 10 years The Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy’s (CBAL) annual fundraising campaign, Reach a Reader - Books for Kids, will hit a milestone anniversary this fall.

October kicks off the CBAL’s 10th annual Books for Kids campaign supported by Black Press Media, Blue Sky Clothing Company, Columbia Valley Pioneer newspaper, credit unions and other local businesses.

“This campaign is one of the most effective ways to shine a spotlight on the importance of literacy and on the community-based programs and services we provide,” said Desneiges Profili, Executive Director of CBAL. Since Black Press and CBAL joined forces in 2010, the Kootenay and Boundary-wide campaign has raised more than $100,000 to support family literacy programs and to buy thousands of children’s books.

“Partnering with Black Press was a natural fit for the Books for Kids campaign,” said Profili of how the campaign got started.

“Newspapers share important local, national and international information and your literacy skills help you to be able to read this information. Literacy skills are the foundation for lifelong learning, interpreting the world, communicating through different mediums and forming opinions and ideas. Literacy skills are powerful!”

This year’s campaign will look a bit different due to COVID-19. CBAL will still be selling Blue Sky socks through their offices and at local businesses. They will be raising donations online at www.cbal.org, but there won’t be any face-to-face or on-the-street events.

“We have seen the impact of physical isolation and limited access to programs and services due to COVID-19,” said Profili. “At

CBAL, even though we may not be able to deliver all of our services in the same way that we have in the past, we will continue to support families to have access to quality books, learning activities and resources. Our staff are focused on creating unique opportunities to reach the people in their communities during this unusual time. We want to make sure that learning can happen for anyone – no matter where they are!”

More than 700,000 British Columbians have significant challenges with literacy according to the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) survey. Those challenges affect 45 per cent of British Columbians between 16 and 65 who have difficulties understanding newspapers, following instruction manuals or reading health information. Basic math like calculating interest on a car loan, or a medical dosage is difficult for 52 per cent of British Columbians of the same age group.

CBAL is a not-for-profit literacy organization that develops and delivers literacy programs and services for families, school-aged children, youth, adults and seniors. In the 2019-20 program year, 5,972 adults and 6,855 children and youth accessed CBAL’s free services and programs throughout the region.

The money raised through this year’s Books for Kids campaign will help local CBAL teams deliver COVID-friendly programs and services.

Donations can be made anytime online at cbal.org. Blue Sky Clothing socks are available from Chrisy Hill, Community Literacy Coordinator- elkvalleycoordinator@cbal. org or 250-946-7257.

Help us reach a reader! To learn more, visit cbal.org.

www.thefreepress.ca

The Free Press

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A27

Elk Valley shows its pride in 2020 Soranne Floarea The Free Press Reporter

Decked out in rainbow wigs, hats, sweaters and flags, revelers collected at Fernie’s City Hall on Sept.

24 to kick off this year’s Elk Valley Pride Festival.

Maintaining high spirits despite the rain, festivities began with the raising of Pride and Transgender flags, along with a series of speeches celebrating diversity and inclusivity. Speakers included Mayor Ange Qualizza, Tom Shypitka, Nic Milligan, and president of the Fernie Pride Society, Kevin Allen, who assured attendees that to have rainbows there must be rain.

The celebration continued as participants embarked on a jubilant bike parade fronted by Mayor Qualizza and Du’Way, where over 20 residents of all ages dressed in rainbow attire cheered as they weaved their way through the streets of Fernie.

The opening ceremonies culminated at City Hall, where attendees partook in a physically distant social and followed by a Beers and Queers event at the Royal Bar’s outdoor Beer Garden.

Spreading the ‘love is love’ even further, a number of virtual, outdoor, and socially distant events took place throughout Fernie between Sept. 24 and 27.

All images by Soranne Floarea / The Free Press

YOUR OLD MEDS WON’T DISAPPEAR BY

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KEEP YOUR KIDS SAFE. returnyourmeds.ca

Page A28 Thursday, October 1, 2020

The Free Press

www.thefreepress.ca

YOUR EARS MAY BE SCREAMING FOR ATTENTION Life can be noisy. Especially for those in high-decibel professions. If you’re having trouble following conversations, hear ringing or feel pain, visit your nearest Hearing Loss Clinic.

We’ll cut to the root of your problem.

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Salute to Firefighters — The Free Press

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A9

3 essentials of a

fire-safe kitchen Did you know cooking is a leading cause of residential fires?

In response to this alarming fact, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has chosen the theme Serve up fire safety in the kitchen! for this year’s Fire Prevention Week, which runs from October 4 to 10. Here are three components of a fire-safe kitchen.

1. A WATCHFUL EYE According to the NFPA, unattended cooking is the number-one cause of kitchen fires.

Therefore, you should never leave the kitchen when frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food. If you need to leave the room, even briefly, turn off the burner. While it’s safe to leave food briefly unattended if it’s simmering, baking or roasting, you should check it regularly (set a timer to remind you) and never leave the house.

2. A CLEAN SPACE To reduce the likelihood of a kitchen fire igniting, make sure your cooking area is free of clutter.

This includes keeping flammable items like oven mitts, wooden utensils and food wrappers away from the stovetop. You should also avoid wearing loose clothing when you cook. Remember to clean food and grease from the stovetop and oven after each use.

3. A NEARBY LID The most effective way to put out a small grease fire is to carefully slide a lid over the pot or pan and turn off the burner. Never use a portable fire extinguisher to put out a grease fire. Similarly, in the event of an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed until the appliance cools.

For more safety tips, consult the Fire Prevention Week website at firepreventionweek.org.

Our Valley’s fire departments are always looking for more volunteers.

Get involved with the department in your area!

Baynes Lake: Elkford: Elko/Jaffray:

250-429-3133 250-865-4020 250-429-3133

Fernie: Hosmer: Sparwood:

250-423-4226 250-429-3133 250-425-0558

Page A10 Thursday, October 1, 2020

Salute to Firefighters — The Free Press

www.thefreepress.ca

4 fire-safety measures to implement at home A fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you with just a few minutes to safely evacuate. This means every member of your household needs to be prepared to act quickly in an emergency. If you haven’t done so already, here are four things you should do to protect your family.

1. INSTALL AN ALARM SYSTEM You should have at least one smoke alarm and one carbon monoxide detector on each floor of your home, as well as near the bedrooms. Regularly make sure they function by holding down the test button until the alarm goes off. Always keep extra batteries in the house.

2. BUY A PORTABLE EXTINGUISHER Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher on hand to quickly put out small fires before they cause extensive damage. Install it in a visible location out of the reach of children, ideally on a wall near an exit. Additionally, make sure you know how to use it.

3. CREATE AN EVACUATION PLAN Draw a floorplan of your home that clearly identifies possible exits, escape routes and a meeting point.

This diagram should also note the location of fire extinguishers and alarms around the house.

Conduct a fire drill at least once a year to ensure everyone can evacuate your home within three minutes.

4. KEEP EXITS CLEAR Exits should be free of obstructions at all times. In the winter, make sure snow is promptly cleared away from doors and ground-floor windows, and that none of these exits are frozen shut. Additionally, make sure furniture and other objects don’t block escape routes.

These simple steps can help keep you and your family safe in the event of a fire.

www.fernie.ca letstalk.fernie.ca emal letstalk@fernie.ca

We Salute Our Local Fire Fighters

The Fernie Fire Department would like to remind you and your family how to be prepared in the event of a fire: Look for places that fires could start in your home, especially in the kitchen.

Identify potential hazards in order to reduce them.

Listen for the sound of smoke alarms. Ensure they are working and installed on every floor in your home.

Learn two ways out of every room in your home, and make sure all doors and windows that lead outside can be opened easily.

In the event of an emergency, it is important that your family is prepared. For more information on Fire Prevention Week and Safety in the Kitchen, visit https://www. fernie.ca/EN/main/residents/emergency-services/fernie-fire-department.html.

THE RDEK SALUTES OUR VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS IN HOSMER, ELKO, JAFFRAY & BAYNES LAKE 1-888-478-7335 | www.rdek.bc.ca

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Salute to Firefighters — The Free Press

Why cleaning your chimney

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A11

is a must

How and why you should regularly check your smoke detectors

If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace in your home, you should have your chimney cleaned by a professional at least once a year. Here’s why.

Each floor of your home, including the basement, should be equipped with a smoke detector. It’s also a good idea to put a smoke detector in every room.

However, the most important thing of all is regularly checking that they work properly.

TO REMOVE CREOSOTE Every time you use your wood stove or fireplace, smoke and soot build up inside the flue. This residue, known as creosote, is highly flammable and the primary cause of chimney fires. In addition, sweeping your chimney ensures that smoke and carbon monoxide are ventilated outside your home.

HOW TO INSPECT SMOKE DETECTORS Once a month, press the “test” button on each of your smoke detectors. If you don’t hear anything, replace the battery immediately.

It should be noted that even a thin layer of creosote is a fire hazard. So while almost anyone can use a chimney brush, a thorough sweep by a professional is necessary to ensure your chimney is safe to use.

TO IDENTIFY DEFECTS Once all the creosote is removed, the chimney sweeper can inspect the components of the ventilation system. This includes the interior ducts and the chimney cap outside. The purpose of this inspection is to identify any damage or deterioration and make necessary repairs.

While you should have your chimney cleaned and inspected once a year, additional maintenance may be required if you frequently use your stove or fireplace during the winter. This will ensure your home and family are safe.

In addition, you should confirm whether your detectors can actually detect the presence of smoke. Once a year, blow out a candle under them. If they don’t go off, then they need to be replaced as soon as possible.

SMOKE DETECTORS SAVE LIVES The best way to prevent casualties in the case of a fire is to have functioning smoke detectors. Here’s why.

• Most fire-related casualties occur overnight. A smoke detector’s alarm allows occupants to wake up and evacuate in time.

• Smoke inhalation is the leading cause of fire-related death. Smoke spreads quickly, and occupants have on average two minutes to evacuate before smoke inhalation becomes life threatening. Smoke detectors allow you to react before it’s too late.

The bottom line is that well-functioning smoke detectors are the best way to keep you and your family safe.

THE DISTRICT OF SPARWOOD IS PROUD TO SALUTE OUR FIREFIGHTERS During Fire Prevention Week we are given the opportunity to tell all of our firefighters just how much they are appreciated and to thank them for all they do to keep our community safe.

We extend a heartfelt thanks to all of our skilled and qualified firefighters for their dedication, commitment to fire rescue, training, fire safety and education, and pay tribute to them during Fire Prevention Week.

Page A12 Thursday, October 1, 2020

Salute to Firefighters — The Free Press

www.thefreepress.ca

Thank You to Our Our firefighters Courage that can’t be extinguished Most people will flee from a burning building, but firefighters face the blaze head-on. Indeed, there are few professions that require the kind of selfless courage that’s displayed by members of the fire service. Plus, many are volunteers, particularly in rural areas.

In addition to putting out fires, firefighters are often the first responders during medical emergencies and at car accidents.

As such, they must be trained to perform basic lifesaving interventions and assist paramedics. In some regions, they even carry naloxone to treat opioid overdoses.

Similarly, when firefighters are called to the scene of a car crash, their duties aren’t limited to extinguishing an engine fire. Firefighters must assist other emergency personnel to extricate victims from damaged vehicles and clear the wreckage. They may also receive special training to safely rescue people from confined spaces, collapsed buildings and beneath ice.

Firefighters carry out their duties in extreme heat and blinding smoke. They work long shifts, both day and night, and risk their lives. In recent years, many firefighters have even volunteered to help their colleagues in other regions and countries battle volatile wildfires. This is a profession where altruism knows no bounds.

Baynes Lake Fire Rescue Team Members Regional District of East Kootenay Elk Valley South Country Fire Chief Dave Boreen Deputy Fire Chief Michael Hockley Battalion Chief Jim Cosens Captain(s) Rachael Smith, Marie Cosens Firefighter(s) Dave Sutherland, Chad Bevand, Sharon Leeper, Steve Ebbern Logistics Sandy Helfrich, Janet Baher, Bonnie Kari

Fernie Fire Rescue Team Members Fire Chief Ted Ruiter Assistant Chief Brendan Morgan Fire Prevention Officer Brett Uphill Training Officer Troy MacLachlan Lieutenant Bruce Nelson Career Firefighter(s) Trevor Fairweather, Cory Robinson, Sean Gigliotti, Brad Filgate Battalion Manager Steve Kallies Team Leader(s) Zane Neal, Mike Bragg, Mike Lennox Aux Firefighter(s) Nathan Hickerson, Scott Robinson, Justin Surine, Dustin St. Jean, Tyson Schmidt, Alan Weir, Luc Coultry, Sanjeev Parmar, Travis Leeden, Mick Prideaux, Jason Andreola, Dean Borgen, Zackary Jantz, Dana MacMahon, Eric Patison, Justin Pruchnicki, Brett Robertson, Dan Wilkie, Steve Marlborough

Elkford Fire Rescue Team Members Director Corey Kortmeyer Deputy Director Curtis Nyuli Firefighter(s) Bruce White, Louis Bourgeois, Elov Simmons, Harvey Macpherson, Patrick, Milan, Jason Kaiser, Derik Finlay, Sheldon Thiel, Neil Hawthorne, Kyle Cook, Courtenay Robinson, George McGhee, David Olsen, Jason Langille, Misty Shinners, Breanne Newberry, Christopher Olsen, James Mills, David Baines, Curtis Reker, Clayton Thiel

Hosmer Fire Rescue Team Members Regional District of East Kootenay Elk Valley South Country Fire Chief Dave Boreen Deputy Fire Chief Michael Hockley Battalion Chief Jeremy Nordstrom Captain(s) Shelley Vaness, Bryan Matthews Firefighter(s) David Barrett, Humberto Alvarado, Richard Reedyk, Ben Goertzen, Peter Goettlicher, Clea Sackville, Korie Bartsch

www.thefreepress.ca

Salute to Firefighters — The Free Press

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A13

FIREFIGHTERS Sparwood Fire Rescue Team Members Fire Chief Dean Spry Deputy Chief Brad Hogg; Assistant Chief Karl Ehrler Captain(s) Ken Syrja, Mike Harrington, Preston Engel, Sheldon Tennant, Scott Holberton Lieutenant(s) Duane Nelson, Dwayne Matatall, Darrick Lawson, Pete Race Firefighter(s) Al Laidlaw, James Bosman, Willy Mortimer, Daniel Piderman, Andrew Schmitz, Keyten Kunst, Alex Isaacs, Tony Bell, Taylor Wiseman Rookie(s) Timothy Schindel, Harley Marshall, Miranda Dolfo, Tom Lundrigan, Daniel Flegel, Dayton Obre, Kyle Bodie, Noah Devine, Julie Winter, Dominic Plourde, Brett Engel, Nicole Thurman

Jaffray Fire Rescue Team Members Regional District of East Kootenay Elk Valley South Country Fire Chief Dave Boreen Deputy Fire Chief Michael Hockley Battalion Chief JP Braaten Captain(s) Clint Ewasiuk; Willy Rayman, Laurent Leonetti Lieutenant Terry Montgomery Firefighter(s) Kayla Ewasiuk, JT Ewasiuk, Dennis Lightburn, Cindy Lightburn, Ron Ek, Glenna Perkins, Aaron Wolff, Mike Keehn, Luc Tierens, Austin Sheridan Logistics Lainee Gleeson, Kathy McAleese

Elko Fire Rescue Team Members Regional District of East Kootenay Elk Valley South Country Fire Chief Dave Boreen Deputy Fire Chief Michael Hockley Battalion Chief Dale Hark Captain(s) Dean Haarstad, Leonard Holmgren, Mark Johnson Lieutenant Shayne Webster Sr Firefighter(s) Alfred Frehner, Anissa Haarstad, Corlyn Haarstad, Katy Haarstad, Julie Holmgren, Daigen Wilson, Alyssa Shaw, Cliff Mare Logistics Angela Fregin, Joe McPhee, Ilona Webster

SAFETY TIPS: •

Test smoke alarm batteries often, and replace them when you change the time on your clocks: in the spring and in the fall.

•

In the event of a fire, check doorknobs for excessive heat with the back of your hand before using them.

•

If you must escape through smoke, crawl on your hands and knees to the nearest exit.

•

Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from drapes, clothing and other combustible items.

•

Make sure all flammable liquids are properly identified and stored away from heat and flames.

•

Always unplug small appliances when they aren’t in use.

•

Don’t leave the dryer running when you go out; it could malfunction during your absence.

•

Never use an extension cord that’s coiled or bunched together. The wires may generate heat that could melt the casing and cause a fire.

Page A14 Thursday, October 1, 2020

Salute to Firefighters — The Free Press

Thank you to the dedicated men and women of our local and volunteer fire departments.

Jeanie MacIntyre 701 9th Avenue flameguard@telus.net Cell: 250-423-1484

Fire Extinguishers • Inspection & Installation • Fire Safety Plans

McDonald’s proudly supports the Community Fire Chief for the Day Kids Contest

McDonald’s Highway 3 - Fernie

Courage Under Fire We Salute Our Firefighters.

For the important role they play in protecting our lives and for their brave and selfless sacrifice.

A special thank you for your dedication and hard work.

We gratefully recognize your service to our community.

You are all heroes, and we thank you for all that you do.

Causeway Bay Hotel 102 Red Cedar Drive, Sparwood, BC 250-425-2003

www.thefreepress.ca

What to do if there’s a fire in your kitchen More house fires start in the kitchen than in any other room. Of these, most are caused by grease. Here’s what to do if a fire breaks out while you’re cooking.

The first step is to eliminate the heat source. If it’s possible to do so without injuring yourself, turn off the oven or stove.

Next, you need to deprive the fire of oxygen. In the case of an oven fire, leave the door closed and wait for the fire to extinguish itself. If it’s in a pan, smother it with a lid or baking sheet. To do this safely, hold the cover in front of you like a shield and cover the pot from front to back. Don’t throw the lid on the fire, as you risk spreading the flames around.

If you don’t have a cover, baking soda can be used to smother the flames.

However, you’ll likely need more than the small box you keep in your fridge.

You can also use a fire extinguisher, as long as it’s rated B, which designates that it’s safe to use on grease fires. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire.

If the fire is burning too hotly to be smothered or it begins to spread fast, evacuate the house and call the fire department immediately.

Help the firefighter find the right path to the fire station.

www.thefreepress.ca

FU N !

Salute to Firefighters — The Free Press

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A15

Sparky wants you to learn to stop, drop, and roll if your clothes catch fire.

Can you find the objects below in the pictures? Circle them and then color the pictures.

Developed by the NFPA. 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169

NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week website. © 2020 NFPA

The name and image of Sparky® are trademarks of the NFPA.

at Canadian Tire we care.

Thank You Firefighters for your dedication and service.

Thank you to our local firefighters and volunteers.

1791 9th Avenue 250-423-4222

250-423-4607 792 2nd Ave., Fernie

250-425-6489 2-101 Red Cedar Dr., Sparwood

OPEN EVERY DAY 8:00 A.M. - 9:00 P.M.

Page A16 Thursday, October 1, 2020

Salute to Firefighters — The Free Press

www.thefreepress.ca

Fire safety

Portable fire extinguishers:

Are your fire escapes accessible?

Making the right choice

Additionally, you should regularly ascertain that windows intended as evacuation points effortlessly open (that they don’t get stuck due to ice or rust, for instance). And if you have young children, also make sure these exits are easy for them to reach and open.

Finally, don’t forget to identify all possible hitches in your evacuation plan. Ideally, set up a strategy that allows for two different paths to get out of each room in your house.

2. It can put out A, B and C type fires. In other words, it puts out fires from combustible materials (wood, paper, cloth, etc.), flammable gases or liquids (oil, gas, grease, etc.) and electrical equipment (wiring, electrical panel, etc.).

3. It has a minimum 2A 10B C rating, which means it can put out a 2 ft3 paper or wood fire (2A) and a 10 ft2 gas or oil fire (10B). The letter C means that the extinguishing agent does not conduct electricity.

4. It’s lightweight and easy to use, since the extinguisher won’t be of any use if it’s too heavy for you to wield.

Furthermore, check whether it’s refillable or has a limited lifespan.

Once you get home, install the fire extinguisher near an exit, but at a good distance from possible fire sources (oven, heater, etc.). Most importantly, learn to use it and be ready to act in case of an emergency.

Fire safety: test your knowledge How would you react if a fire broke out in your home? Are you well prepared to act fast? To find out if you could better protect your loved ones and belongings, test your fire safety smarts with this short quiz.

TRUE OR FALSE? 1. A smoke detector should ideally be replaced every 15 years.

2. The majority of fire-related deaths are caused by smoke inhalation.

3. The majority of fire-related deaths occur at night.

4. Smoke takes at least five minutes to spread throughout a home.

5. One smoke alarm in the home is sufficient to warn occupants of a potential fire.

6. The best way to put out a cooking fire is with water.

7. Candles left unattended, placed too close to a flammable object or left within a child’s reach are a major cause of house fires.

8. Portable fire extinguishers are only effective against small, recently started fires.

1. False.

Smoke detectors generally have a 10year lifespan.

2. True.

3. True.

Hence the importance of having several functioning fire alarms in the home.

4. False.

Smoke can spread throughout the home in only three minutes. Make sure to have an evacuation plan in place, and practice it!

To avoid hindering your quick departure to safety, make certain that the doors and windows that serve as emergency exits are unobstructed at all times. Put away all items strewn around them (shoes, backpacks, toys, etc.) and be sure not to block emergency exits with furniture or large objects. Also, in winter, carefully remove snow from all doors, balconies, windows and terraces after every snowfall. Make sure your house number sign is kept clear as well.

1. It has a seal from a recognized organization such as the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC).

5. False.

It’s recommended to install at least one smoke detector on each floor of the home, including the basement.

6. False.

Never try to put out a kitchen fire with water. Instead, smother the flames by placing a lid over the burning pot or pan.

7. True.

8. True.

Portable fire extinguishers should only be used if the room isn’t already filled with smoke and if you’re still safe from harm.

In the event of a house fire, smoke can invade your home in less than three minutes. It’s therefore vital that everyone evacuate the premises quickly. Will your emergency exits allow for this to happen?

Used to douse the flames of a burgeoning fire, a portable fire extinguisher is a valuable piece of safety equipment that you should have on hand at home. Do you need to buy or replace one? If so, be sure to look for a fire extinguisher that has the following four features:

Answers

Using a portable fire extinquisher:

We salute the firefighters of the Elk Valley and South Country!

PASS Keep your back to the exit and stand 10-20 feet away from fire

P - PULL THE PIN A - AIM NOZZLE AT BASE OF FIRE S - SQUEEZE THE LEVER SLOWLY S - SWEEP FROM SIDE TO SIDE

We customize insurance to meet your needs.

Talk to one of our advisors and get a quote today.

Fernie

Sparwood

Elkfork

691b - 2 Ave 250-423-6831

110 Centennial St 250-425-6634

814 Michel Rd 250-865-2261

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The Free Press

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A17

Rockies Notary & Legal

Real Estate

A Division of Rockies Law Corporation

Real Estate, Family Law, Business Law Corporate and Commercial, Civil Litigation Personal Injury, Tax Law, Wills and Estates Karen Tse | Graeme R. Nunn | Marian Gravelle

HOUSE HUNTING? Look here for must-see local listings!

Fernie

Sparwood

PO Box 490 Suite 202 502 Third avenue Fernie, BC V0B 1M0 Tel: (250) 423-4446 Fax: (250) 423-4065

PO Box 1886 Suite116 101 Red Cedar Drive Sparwood, BC V0B 2G0 Tel: (250) 425-2114 Fax: (250) 425-2204

info@rockieslaw.com www.rockieslaw.com

We Don’t Work for the Bank.

We Work for You! You deserve the lowest discounted rates and access to every mortgage product.

• Purchase • Renewal • Construction • Debt Consolidation • Self Employed Solutions • First Time Homebuyers • Non-Residents • AND MUCH MORE!

FOR ADVERTISING DETAILS CONTACT: Madi Bragg Publisher/Sales Manager 250-423-4666 advertising@thefreepress.ca

Zonya Knooihuizen Mortgage Broker zonya@ekmortgage.ca (250) 423-1864 www.eastkootenaymortgage.ca 462 2 Avenue, Fernie BC Fax (250) 423-6761

Dominion Lending Centres – East Kootenay Mortgage Independently owned and operated

Page A18 Thursday, October 1, 2020

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The Free Press

. FERNIE .

561A Hwy #3, Fernie, BC Phone: 250.423.4644 Toll Free: 1.888.870-9064

120 Spruce Ave. Sparwood, BC Phone: 250.425.2722

48 Park Avenue

$619,900 Price Reduced! Well maintained 3/1-bedroom home located on a large .20 of an acre lot in Fernie’s Mountainview subdivision.

Jason Andreola 2451763

73 Ridgemont Drive $740,000

1316 Dicken Road $739,000

#106 - 5350 Highline Drive $117,000

SOLD

Now this is a really sweet property.

It’s just a quick 8 minute scenic drive to city center, newer 2018 Cinch Home, sits on 5 acres.

Lizard Creek Lodge -1/2 share unit: Gorgeous, turn key, 1/2 share of a 1 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo.

Candace Grey 2452928

Call Carrie Lightburn MLS 2452322

Call Candace Grey MLS 2454427

#209 - 5350 Highline Dr

Million Dollar View!

Here is the home you have been waiting for!

Beautiful 3 bedroom home located in Ridgemont subdivision.

Call Jason Andreola MLS 2454463

uced

Price Red

108C - 901 2nd Ave

SOLD Jason Andreola 2452059

1719 Dicken Road

8 Silver Ridge Way

3 Oliverio Place

Hosmer West Road

$599,000

$1,089,000

$255,000

From $199,000 to $319,000

Price reduced! Motivated seller!

This is a beautiful property, just 5 min from Fernie. Updated bungalow on a full bsmt.

Meticulously maintained family home in Fernie’s most desired location! This 5 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath home has everything.

0.47 of an acre lot (terrific mountain views) located in Alpine Trails.

Lots 40 to 46 are surrounded by mature trees, mountain views and the Elk River out the back.

Carrie Lightburn 2451322

Lori Russell 2453541

Frank Hughes 2433563

Carrie Lightburn 2453063

#201 - 40 Ridgemont Ave

SOLD Lori Russell 2450948

1401 7th Avenue

$515,000 Prime Annex location, large corner lot, check out this 1300, 3+1 bdrm/2 bath home on a full basement.

Carrie Lightburn 2453030

22 Ridgemont Drive

SOLD Candace Grey 2453433

16 Sunniva Drive $949,900

Highway 3, Hosmer Lot K Castle Mountain Rd

This beautifully designed 4 bedroom home in Montane was custom built by Ram Creek Homes.

$149,000 .279 acre lot tucked away on Castle Mountain. Lot is 60’x202’, zoned R1. City services available nearby.

Call Lori Russell MLS 2453335

2452931 - $299,000 2453023 - $289,000 2453161 - $289,000 2451668 - $329,000

4494 Highway 3 $849,999

Lot 39 Lot 38 Lot 37 Lot 30

Fisherman’s Paradise!

Riverfront Acreage (8.43 acres) located less than 10 minutes south of Fernie.

Call Frank Hughes MLS 2431711

Call Carrie Lightburn

Carrie Lightburn 2453029

Candace Grey

Jason Andreola

Frank Hughes

Nancy J. McNay

Lori Russell

Paula Smith

Vanessa Lee Smith

Britainy Ernst

Lynn Edwards

Sheila Byers

Carrie Lightburn

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Elk Valley 250.423.1044

Elk Valley 250.423.1645

Elk Valley 250.425.5555

Elk Valley 250.423.8882

Elk Valley 250.278.6444

Elkford 866.425.3690

Elkford 250.425.1323

Sparwood 250.425.4188

Sparwood 250.430.7822

Elk Valley 250.423.1757

Cranbrook 250.421.3629

www.ekrealty.com

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The Free Press

Thursday, October 1, 2020 Page A19

. SPARWOOD .

561A Hwy #3, Fernie, BC Phone: 250.423.4644 Toll Free: 1.888.870-9064

120 Spruce Ave. Sparwood, BC Phone: 250.425.2722

120 Centennial Street

412 Willow Place

1244 Sycamore Road

15 Juniper Crescent

$1500/mth

$299,900

$75,000

$110,000

2127 Whiskey Jack Dr

$105,000

Commercial space with loads of natural light! Located on the second floor above the Elk Valley Thrift Shop Society.

Great family home in a quiet cul de sac in Lower Sparwood.

4 Bedroom 1.5 bath home with large fully fenced yard.

Very rare R1-A zoned corner lot for a modular or traditional family home. Adjacent lot also available.

Don’t miss out on this fabulous investment opportunity in Sparwood’s desirable Juniper Court. Well maintained unit.

Ready to build in Sparwood?

Huge .378 acre lot perfect for your dream home! 1st phase Whisky Jack Golf Course.

Sheila Byers 2454456

Britainy Ernst 2454602

Britainy Ernst 2428449

Sheila Byers 2452261

Britainy Ernst 2450620

uced

Price Red

#411 - 1286 Ponderosa Drive $115,000 Home away from home, first time home buyer, investment property this 2 bedroom 1 bathroom condo apartment would be perfect.

Call Lynn Edwards MLS 2451774

#108 - 100 Industrial Rd

#2 152 Spruce Avenue

248 Blue Spruce Cresc

#52 - 101 Red Cedar Dr

$369,900

$150,000

$83,000

Location! This updated family home by the school will tick all the boxes! This home is 4 bedroom and 2 baths.

Buds & Blooms. Been dreaming of owning your own business?

Have a creative side that needs to be exposed? Now’s your chance!

This bright 3 bdrm, 2 bth home in Mountain View MHP is perfect for first time home buyer or those looking to downsize.

Britainy Ernst 2454400

Sheila Byers 2452267

Sheila Byers 2450041

1246 Sycamore Road

465 White Birch Cresc

256 Blue Spruce Cresc

#58 - 100 Aspen Drive

$112,000

$89,000

$90,000

$369,000

$389,000

Quick possession available for this affordable, low maintenance 2012 mobile, 3 bdrms/2 baths, bright, open concept layout.

Well priced rare 2 bedroom condo located downtown Sparwood. Building features covered parking & laundry.

Very rare R1-A zoned corner lot for a modular or traditional family home. Adjacent lot is also available for a total of .281 acres!

Location! Location! Within walking distance to schools, downtown Sparwood, and the Rec Center.

Price Reduced! This immaculate one owner home by the school in Lower Sparwood is ready for a new family! 4 bdrm.

Britainy Ernst 2451223

Britainy Ernst 2434322

Britainy Ernst 2428448

Frank Hughes 2454019

Britainy Ernst 2454164

#81 - 100 Industrial #1 Rd

399 Red Cedar Cres

444 Pine Ave

SOLD

SOLD

Lynn Edwards 2454084

Frank Hughes 2453568

106 Centennial Square $1200/mth

2248 Black Hawk Dr

2014 Golden Eagle Dr

$399,000

$634,000

With over 1600 sq ft of space in Sparwood Centennial Square, large double doors at the rear for easy delivery of your products.

This affordable 3 bedroom 2 bath home in the Whiskey Jack Resort is a great way to get into Sparwood’s housing market!

Totally unique (New Dawn Custom Design) 4 bdrm, 3 bathroom home on a huge corner lot (0.35 acre).

Sheila Byers 2453304

Britainy Ernst 2454264

Frank Hughes 2452032

$49,900 Affordability. This 3 bdrm 1 bath home has an open concept and has had a few upgrades.

Laminate flooring throughout.

uced

Price Red

1217 Sycamore Road $205,000 First time home buyers retiree’s you do not want to miss out on this fabulous mobile on it’s own lot.

The home is move in ready.

Call Sheila Byers MLS 2454199

Lynn Edwards 2454349

442 Mountain Ash Crescent $330,000 This home located in lower Sparwood is ready for new owners.

Lots of updates in recent years.

Call Britainy Ernst MLS 2454292

410 Willow Place $389,999 Pride of Ownership for 42 years!

Here is a lovely 4 bedroom home on a (0.225) acre lot located in a quiet, safe cul-de-sac.

Call Frank Hughes MLS 2454412

Candace Grey

Jason Andreola

Frank Hughes

Nancy J. McNay

Lori Russell

Paula Smith

Vanessa Lee Smith

Britainy Ernst

Lynn Edwards

Sheila Byers

Carrie Lightburn

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Elk Valley 250.423.1044

Elk Valley 250.423.1645

Elk Valley 250.425.5555

Elk Valley 250.423.8882

Elk Valley 250.278.6444

Elkford 866.425.3690

Elkford 250.425.1323

Sparwood 250.425.4188

Sparwood 250.430.7822

Elk Valley 250.423.1757

Cranbrook 250.421.3629

www.ekrealty.com

royallepage@shawcable.com

Page A20 Thursday, October 1, 2020

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The Free Press

. ELKFORD .

561A Hwy #3, Fernie, BC Phone: 250.423.4644 Toll Free: 1.888.870-9064

120 Spruce Ave. Sparwood, BC Phone: 250.425.2722

55 Cariboo Drive

43 Cariboo Drive

#107 - 10 Cariboo Dr

A&B - 14 Cariboo Dr

$375,000

$23,400

$79,000

$427,000

$185,495

Must see this beautiful large Duplex located on Cariboo Drive!

This 3 bedroom 3 bathroom home will suit a large family.

Serviced and ready to build on!

Great location within walking distance to schools and Mini Mall. Adjacent lot is also for sale.

2 bdrm condo suite on lower level with westerly mountain views.

Complex has sauna room,exercise room & storage lockers.

This full duplex was built in 2009. Come and see this unique investment opportunity in Elkford.

Brand new 20’ wide in the Wilderness Heights MHP. 1520 square feet of living space. 3 bdrm and 2 full bths.

Paula Smith 2453485

Paula Smith 2454462

Paula Smith 2453677

Vanessa Smith 2451034

Britainy Ernst 2451506

uced

uced

Price Red

2210 Almond Street $279,000 Beautifully cared for and renovated 4 bedroom 2 bathroom home.

Comes with all the necessary work done!

Call Vanessa Smith MLS 2454007

45 Wilderness Heights Dr

Price Red

1323 Alpine Drive

41 Wilderness Heights Way

#20 & 26 Darby Cres

1 Citadel Place

$256,000

$170,165

$35,000 to $44,000

$269,000

51 Dawson Crescent

$25,000

Great location, easy access with private yard in middle town backing onto green belt.

3 bedroom 2 bathroom home.

Brand new 20’ wide in the Wilderness Heights MHP. 1520 sq.ft of living space. 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths.

Build your dream home.

Large lots located in the quiet and desirable Darby Crescent.

Come see what this cute home has to offer. Great curb appeal! 3 bdrm 2 bth and tons of storage.

Serviced and ready to build on!

Great location within walking distance to schools and Mini Mall.

Adjacent lot is also for sale.

Vanessa Smith 2452156

Britainy Ernst 2451338

Paula Smith 2219070

Vanessa Smith 2451008

Paula Smith 2454469

11 Dawson Crescent

uced

Price Red

#107 - 93 Deerborne Dr

54 Wilderness Heights Dr

49 Wilderness Heights Dr

6 Wilderness Heights Dr

8 Clearwater Place

#112 - 501 Elk Street

$175,675

$168,500

$179,900

$225,000

$63,500

$320,000

Brand new 20’ wide in the Wilderness Heights MHP. 1520 sq.ft of living space. 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths.

Brand new 20’ wide at Wilderness Heights. 1520 square feet of living space. 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths.

2018 home in Wilderness Heights that is in like new conditions. This cozy home offers 3 bdrm and 2 bth.

Cozy 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home located on a large 0.2080 corner lot in Upper part of town.

Cozy one bedroom condo located on ground floor and Walking out to a courtyard.

Mountain views are fabulous!

Must see this top end spacious 4 bdrm, 4 bth, new 4 plex unit. Features include vaulted ceilings & hardwood flooring.

Britainy Ernst 2451336

Britainy Ernst 2439276

Lynn Edwards 2453688

Paula Smith 2450038

Paula Smith 2454275

Paula Smith 2454653

#108 - 93 Deerborne Dr

15 David Crescent

Lots 78,80 & 82 Deerborne Dr

49 Dawson Crescent

2027 Alder Street

$68,000

$45,000

$98,500

$26,900

$120,000

SOLD Paula Smith 2435434

uced

Price Red

Fully Furnished, Ground floor unit facing private green space. This 1 bedroom condo is comfortable and inviting.

Huge flat lot.....0.281 Acre. Build in desirable newly developing area, no time commitments, close to schools, and trails.

Rare Opportunity! Build your dream home on a very beautiful lot measuring over 0.5780 acres! (combination of 3 lge lots)

Serviced and ready to build on!

Great location within walking distance to schools and Mini Mall. Adjacent lot is also for sale.

No more renting! This great little gem is priced to sell with updated roof, water tank and water softener.

Vanessa Smith 2453909

Vanessa Smith 2454316

Paula Smith 2453423

Paula Smith 2454467

Vanessa Smith 2452383

40 Wilderness Heights Way

680 Natal Road

108 Cariboo Drive

25 & 27 Chimo Cresc

#2 & 19 Dallas Place

$195,955

$294,500

Brand new doublewide in the Wilderness Heights MHP. Features 2 bdrm plus den/ office and 2 full bths.

Beautifully updated 5 bedroom 3 bathroom Bungalow back onto Boivin Creek and walking distance to downtown.

Britainy Ernst 2451337

Vanessa Smith 2454350

SOLD

$59,750

$35,000 to $43,000

Buy the perfect lot to build your dream home on. Lot is 0.27 in total.(Two lots in one).

Build your dream home here.

View lots located on a quiet cul-de-sac.

Paula Smith 2437575

Paula Smith 2433262

1122 Ash Crescent $219,000 Quick Possession!

Home is ready and waiting for a new family!

Features 4 bdrm,3 baths, walk out basement and a large kitchen.

Paula Smith 2450327 Call Paula Smith MLS 2454611

Candace Grey

Jason Andreola

Frank Hughes

Nancy J. McNay

Lori Russell

Paula Smith

Vanessa Lee Smith

Britainy Ernst

Lynn Edwards

Sheila Byers

Carrie Lightburn

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Elk Valley 250.423.1044

Elk Valley 250.423.1645

Elk Valley 250.425.5555

Elk Valley 250.423.8882

Elk Valley 250.278.6444

Elkford 866.425.3690

Elkford 250.425.1323

Sparwood 250.425.4188

Sparwood 250.430.7822

Elk Valley 250.423.1757

Cranbrook 250.421.3629

www.ekrealty.com

royallepage@shawcable.com